The ASE, an independent nonprofit organization, was created in 1972 to improve the quality of vehicle repair and service by testing and certifying automotive professionals. The Blue Seal of Excellence is the highest certification level given by the organization, according to First Student.

“Our maintenance teams recognize the impact of what they do every day,” said Todd Hawkins, First Student senior vice president of maintenance. “Their hard work and discipline result in safe and reliable school buses, which provide students with the best start and finish to the school day.”

In order to become Blue Seal certified, at least 75% of technicians performing diagnosis and repairs at the location must be ASE certified. In addition, each area of service offered in the maintenance shop must be covered by at least one ASE-certified technician.

Two initiatives that the National School Transportation Association has worked extensively to modify or defeat over the past few years have recently been withdrawn by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.